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Time and Science in the Liber Floridus of Lambert of Saint-Omer

The Liber Floridus is an encyclopedic compilation written in the first quarter of the 12th century by a canon of Saint Omer named Lambert. In his attempt at synthesis and innovation he collected earlier sources but also contemporary literature. The work was conceived as an illustrated edition which combines texts on different topics with images and diagrams. In this medieval project time plays an important role, manifested in the liturgical calendar and theological ideas about time, in the movements of planets and the signs of the zodiac, the division of time in years, months and days, the local and universal history. The conference aims to investigate from different points of view and disciplines the reception of new scientific ideas and the many concepts of time which are transmitted in the Liber Floridus in images and texts, considering also the exegetical and philosophical backgrounds. Moreover, the manuscript tradition of the Liber Floridus will be taken into account and particular attention will be given to the Codex Herzog August Bibliothek, Cod. Guelf. 1 Gud. lat., the oldest and accuratest copy of Lambert’s autograph.

Location

The conference venue is unique. Located right next to the Orléans’ cathedral, the episcopal palace of Orléans, built between 1635 and 1641, locally known as the Hôtel Dupanloup, is a classical French building which served until 1905 of residence to the bishops of Orléans. Since 2014, the renewed palace hosts the International University Center for Research and Le Studium Loire Valley Institute for Advanced Studies.

Participants will be welcomed in this exceptional surrounding, blending Middle Age and Renaissance cultures with modern design and will have the opportunity to discover French cuisine and wines.